I'm using an external rackmount compressor (Focusrite Compounder) at the moment, which works pretty well for what I'm doing. I have been tempted many times to get the L-1 Stereo Discrete Microcompressor in my rack though (https://www.modulargrid.net/e/l-1-stereo-discrete-microcompressor). It takes up a good amount of rack space but seems to be the closest thing to a higher end compressor in sound quality and features that you can get without spending a crazy amount of money.
Have fun and good luck.